Waitrose adds three-strong Australian vermouth range

A three-strong Australian craft vermouth brand is launching in Waitrose this month.

Regal Rogue is made using native Australian aromatics as well as 100% Australian wine, and it includes one of the world’s first dry red vermouths.

Waitrose will be introducing three variants, each of which have an average of 30% less sugar than traditional European vermouth. Production methods also vary from those carried out in Europe, resulting in a unique style. All three vermouths are created using a natural production process with no wood interaction and they finish as a semi-dry drink, with a lingering after-taste. The range includes:

The Regal Rouge Wild Rose is led by tropical fruit and fruit spice notes, and it marries a pale and dry Barossa Shiraz Rose from the Adelaide Hills with native illawara plums, rosella, strawberry gum, rhubarb and kina.

Jon Vine, Waitrose’s spirits buyer, said: “We have seen a huge interest in vermouth and particularly more premium and interesting styles. That is why we have increased our range to include Regal Rogue as they tick all of the boxes our customers are looking for in a vernouth. Vermouth is such a versatile spirit and can be served in a number of ways – the concoctions are endless!”

Regal Rouge Vermouths are available in store and online now and are priced at £19.99 each.